Is there anything better for the soul, than the perfect girl’s weekend, with some of your best gal pals? I personally don’t think so. Add is some delicious food, wine and shopping, and you’re all set!

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of traveling to Fairfield County Ohio, with some of the most amazing women. We wined, we dined, we laughed, but more than anything, we loved every second of it and left feeling refreshed!

If you’re not familiar with Fairfield County, that’s ok! I wasn’t either as a non-Ohio native! It’s located near Columbus, Ohio, and just a short distance from the gorgeous state park of Hocking Hills. A 2000-acre state park best known for its lush green forests, beautiful waterfalls, and expansive hiking trails. Needless to say, Fairfield County is not lacking in aesthetics. But more than anything, its just a short 2-hour drive from where I’m located in Northeast Ohio.

Fairfield County offers something for everyone – outdoor adventures, an assortment of restaurants and food options, boutique shopping, breweries, and pretty little wineries.

Buckeye Lake Winery

We started our Saturday afternoon at the cutest little winery, called Buckeye Lake Winery. Its located at the southern end of Buckeye Lake and offers an wide range of wines, a full menu and wedding and event services. Upon arriving, we were greeted with a glass of wine of our choice, (I chose their Pinot Grigio), and then we were ushered outside to enjoy the beautiful views that Buckeye Lake has to offer. And let me tell you, the views did NOT disappoint. We spent a couple of hours, cozied up in their Adirondack chairs, laughing, exchanging stories, and taking in the fresh, lake air!

Rockside Winery

Next on our agenda was Rockside Winery for a little more wine (and wine Slushy) tasting. If you ever get the chance to visit Rockside, try the Peach rose slush!! SO GOOD! This place was the perfect setting for lunch. We were able to enjoy their delicious, gourmet food, while taking in the views of the rolling hills and vineyard.

Shopping

After finishing our DELICIOUS and not overly-filling meal at Rockside Winery, we headed into town to do a little shopping at some of the local boutiques in Lancaster. Because come on, what’s a weekend getaway without a little shopping?! Some of the shops include:

Lodging – Arrow Ridge Lodge

Once we finished spending all our money, we decided it was time to take a load off our feet, and head to our own private oasis in the woods. We were fortunate enough to be able to stay at the MOST GORGEOUS lodge, I have ever seen! Truthfully, if you ever get chance to visit Fairfield County, I cannot recommend Arrowride Lodge enough. This ultra chic, rustic, log cabin is located about 15 minutes from Fairfield County and worth the short drive. The views are unbeatable and everything is done perfectly. From the bedrooms, the indoor and outdoor fireplaces, game room in the basement… its all GORGEOUS!! And did I mention it sleeps 16 comfortably?!

Just down the hill from Arrowridge Lodge, you’ll find the most gorgeous wedding and events barn, that your eyes have ever seen. The Barn at Heather Glen - Its rustic, its chic and it’s oh-so-perfect for those beautiful country weddings that we are loving right now. Sing, dance and be merry, and then retreat to the lodge at the end of the night.

EATS

Let’s not forget the most important thing… the FOOD! During our short, but lovely stay in Fairfield county, we enjoyed some of the most delicious food!

Ale House 1890 – right in the heart of downtown Lancaster is where you’ll find this historic gem. From specialty cocktails and spirits, to made-from-scratch menu items, not a single detail is missed. Our food was incredible! Food suggestion – Try the BBQ Mac and Cheese. SO GOOD!
J.B.’s Downtown Grill – The Sunday brunch of my dreams! Truly, breakfast is one of my most favorite meals of the day and this locally owned and operated, mom and pop shop, did not disappoint my taste buds. Or my belly. From their ooey gooey cinnamon roll, to “The works Skillet,” that I enjoyed, everything was AMAZING! If you get the chance to visit, make sure to say hello the owners Jamie and his wife Beth. Jamie is the chef and Beth is the sweetest soul you’ll ever meet.

Needless to say, the short 2-hour drive south, to Fairfield County was more than worth it. And now that summer is here, its easier than ever! So, grab your girlfriends, startup that car and enjoy our very own wine country, right in our backyard!